Should I tell my child about their disability or diagnosis?

Many professional organizations recommend telling the child, once you've chosen the timing and approach. Children often sense early that "I'm somehow different," and hearing it positively from a trusted adult helps them understand themselves and builds confidence and the ability to say "help me" (self-understanding and self-advocacy). It doesn't have to be a single, heavy "announcement"; the basic approach is to convey it little by little in everyday conversation—as strengths, difficulties, and helpful adjustments. Adjust what and how much you share to their age and level of understanding.